In a tough break for the Tennessee Titans, star wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins is dealing with a knee strain, according to NFL insider Paul Kuharsky. The injury occurred during practice earlier this week, and he’s expected to be sidelined for four to six weeks. This will likely see him out of action for the entirety of the preseason.
In other news: Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert will also be out after a significant injury.
At 32, Hopkins continues to prove he’s among the elite in the league. Last season, he racked up over 1,000 receiving yards with 75 catches and seven touchdowns while playing every game for the Titans.
Heading into 2024, Hopkins joins a revamped receiving corps, featuring new additions like Calvin Ridley and Tyler Boyd, along with free agent running back Tony Pollard. This gives second-year quarterback Will Levis some serious firepower as he gears up for the season, although this injury certainly complicates things.
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Since being drafted in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans, Hopkins has been a consistent threat on the field. He made a significant impact early in his career, hitting 1,210 yards in his second season and achieving an impressive 111 catches for 1,521 yards the following year, which launched him into prominence as a Pro Bowl player.
From 2017 to 2019, he was a fixture on the All-Pro First Team, and despite only making the Second Team in 2020, he continued to shine. After signing a two-year, $26 million contract with Tennessee before the 2023 season, Hopkins quickly became the team’s leading target.
The Titans are hopeful that Hopkins will be back in time for their season opener against the Chicago Bears on September 8. Fans can expect frequent updates about his recovery. Should he miss time, third-year receiver Treylon Burks will likely step up to fill the gap.
More news: A former All-Pro running back from the Bears announces an unexpected retirement.